London, 04.11.2013 – Seven Thai tourism ventures that are devoted to environmental, social and cultural preservation are to be conferred “Green Excellence Awards” at a ceremony to be presided over by Her Royal Highness Princess Ubolratana today at the World Travel Market 2013.

The Awards are designed to reward the commitment and dedication of Thai operators as well as travel agents and media in the United Kingdom who play a vital role in supporting ecotourism in Thailand.

Suraphon Svetasreni, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand said, “We were very happy to receive extensive support from the UK travel agents and media to support ecotourism in Thailand. We will also retain a strong focus on catering to the continuing growing trend for green tourism, a holiday that compliments its environment and the local communities. From quiet treks in the jungles to soft adventure like zip lining and rock climbing, Thailand has outdoor activities to suit any preference.”

Of the 91 applications for this year’s Awards, the judges selected 7 awards of four categories. The judging panel consisted of Simon Pickup, ABTA; Salli Felton, the Travel Foundation; Adrian Bridge, the Daily Telegraph; Lyn Hughes, Editor-in-chief/Managing Director of Wanderlust Travel Media.

The Winners of Thailand Green Excellence Awards 2013

Category: Maritime, Nature and Heritage Tourism

Winner: Intrepid Travel

Highly Commended: Pure Blue Foundation

Category: Community Based Tourism

Winner: Lamai Homestay and Guesthouse

Highly Commended: The Sarojin

Category: Volunteering 

Winner: GVI Thailand Chiang Mai

Category: Animal Welfare

Winner: The Gibbon Rehabilitation Project

Highly Commended: Elephant Nature Park

The Award recipients:

Intrepid travel: www.intrepidtravel.com/about-intrepid

Pure Blue Foundation: www.purebluefoundation.com/about-pure-blue-foundation.php

Lamai Homestay: www.thailandhomestay.com/

The Sarojin: www.sarojin.com/en/khao-lak-resort-sarojin.html; www.sarojin.com/en/khao-lak-resort-sarojin/community-and-environment.html

GVI Thailand: www.gvi.co.uk/about-us; www.gvi.co.uk/location/chiang-mai

The Gibbon rehabilitation project: www.gibbonproject.org/content/about_us.htm

Elephant Nature Park: www.elephantnaturepark.org/aboutus.htm